Pk Com Special Session Minutes 7.12.11

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Special Meeting of the Park Commission City of University City July 12, 2011 Centennial Commons, 7210 Olive Blvd President John Sweeney called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm. Other members present were: Karen Dille Ewald Winker, Interim Director William Field Lynn Ricci, Council Liaison (arrived at 5:05 pm) Gwendolyn Gaines- Beckwith Karen Palmer Caryn St. Clair Excused Absence: Linda Peoples New Business President Sweeney explained the special session was called to act on two items. The first being recommendation on a proposed Eagle Scout project in Kaufman Park, and the second being a new ordinance which would merge Public Works and Parks. Mr. Sweeney indicated that both issues were time sensitive and could not wait until the regular meeting of Park Commission on July 26, 2011. 1) Mr. Sweeney described the proposed Eagle Scout project for Kaufman Park. Explaining the project was part of a memorial for Karl Kaltenthaler; the son of long time scout leader, Mr. Henry Kaltenthaler. The work is being done for The Green Center, and when completed will serve as an outdoor classroom for their use. The project consist of the construction of rustic log benches, an in ground primitive fire pit, clearing the woods of invasive plant species, and reclaiming the trail that was cut through the woods years ago. Mr. Sweeney’s only concern was the use of the fire pit and authorization from the University Fire Department be received before its use. Ms. St. Clair was also afraid other park users; without authorization, starting fires in the pit. Mr. Winker stated he did not believe it would be a problem, and promised the department would monitor the situation. Ms. Karen Dille moved to approve the Eagle Scout project in Kaufman Park, Ms. Gwendolyn Gaines-Beckwith seconded. Vote taken: all approved. 2) Mr. Sweeney presented the proposed new ordinance which would merge the Departments of Public Works and Parks, Recreation & Forestry. Mr. Sweeney made mention the citizen’s comment from last month’s meeting regarding CHAPTER 2.35 PARK COMMISSION, section 2.35.040 E. The citizen was concerned the commission was given too much power and thought they should not be able to supersede staff recommendations for the annual budget. Mr. William Field thought the commission did not have enough information to make such recommendations. Ms. Caryn St. Clair mentioned that in the past the Park Director would share the budget with the commission; but felt the commission did not review the detail of items. Mr. Winker stated that the wording in the new ordinance in this section is the very same as the old one, and it has worked for many years. The Park Commission would continue to review the park budget annually and make recommendation to the City Manager and Council just as in the past.